In the line of duty, for our beloved military men and women. In self defense, for those who were being mugged or attacked. In defense of a loved one, or even a total stranger, opting to be a sheepdog instead of a sheep.

I expect this thread to generate a lot of emotional response, if very few actual typed responses. As someone who is about to get into the world of having the power to end another life, to remove another human being from this planet's existence if they threaten to do the same to me or anyone I love, I want to know what you feel it's like, from someone who's been there before. From someone who has rightfully taken steps to stop a lethal threat.

Is it something you can describe? Is it something that can be anticipated? Can it be compensated for by putting yourself in a certain mindset once you realize what's happened? Is there a certain instinct or natural inclination that makes it easier or more difficult to cope with after all is said and done?